From North Carolina to Portugal: American Couple's HONEST Relocation Experience

Thinking about leaving America for Portugal? Meet Deborah and Kathy, a couple who made the leap from North Carolina to the Algarve and are sharing their unfiltered experience! From visa challenges to transporting pets across the Atlantic, they reveal what it's REALLY like to relocate from the US to Portugal.Get the inside scoop on finding the perfect Portuguese home, navigating the car buying process, learning Portuguese as Americans, and integrating into local culture. Plus, discover their creative solution for pet transportation and why being near the ocean was non-negotiable for their Portugal dream.If you're an American considering Portugal relocation, this honest conversation covers all the practical challenges and unexpected joys of making the move from the Carolinas to coastal Europe.TakeawaysThey were originally from Rhode Island and wanted to return to the ocean for retirement.The couple explored various locations along the East Coast before considering Portugal.Deborah's Portuguese heritage influenced their decision to move to Portugal.They found valuable information about living in Portugal through online resources.The scouting trip to Portugal solidified their decision to relocate.The relocation process involved significant planning and organization.They sold most of their belongings before moving to Portugal.The D7 visa process was a key part of their relocation journey.Language learning is important for cultural integration in Portugal.They appreciate the politeness and respectfulness of Portuguese society. The Algarve is not just one resort; it's a diverse region.Finding a home requires balancing beauty and authenticity.Trusting local resources is crucial in the home search process.The experience of living in the Algarve can be peaceful and local.Transporting pets requires careful planning and consideration.Specialized airlines can help with pet transport.Documentation is essential for pet relocation.Buying a car in Portugal is different from the US.Patience is key when settling into a new country.Understanding local customs can ease the transition.Chapters00:00 Introduction02:47 Journey to Portugal: A New Beginning05:54 Exploring the Algarve: A Home Base09:01 The Decision to Relocate: A Heartfelt Choice11:48 Navigating the Relocation Process14:52 Challenges of Moving: Letting Go and Adjusting18:03 Visa Process and Legalities20:50 Language and Cultural Integration26:40 Finding the Perfect Home in the Algarve36:33 Transporting Pets Across the Atlantic47:06 Navigating Car Purchases in Portugal➣CONTACT US for relocation assistanceGet on a free discovery call and we can outline how we can work with you.https://www.algarveaddicts.com/contactCheck out my Instagram on /algarveaddicts - I enjoy a little bit of Insta!#CurrencyExchange #ExpatsPortugal #InternationalMoneyTransfer #DollarEuro #PropertyPurchaseAbroad #CurrencyHedging #ForwardContracts #ExpatFinance #PortugalProperty #MoneyTransferTips #CurrencyBroker #ExchangeRates #MovingAbroad #InternationalTransfers #CurrencyRisk #PortugalExpat #ExpatMoney #CurrencyTrading #PropertyInvestmentAbroad #InternationalPropertyBuying